Sometimes it just takes a little time and a few encouraging friends along the way. Care staff rejoiced recently to see resident chimpanzee Cayenne venture far out onto her three-acre island. The reason the care staff was jumping for joy at the sight was because since 37-year old Cayenne was rescued from biomedical research and brought to Save the Chimps, it was her first big adventure outside far onto the island. Having spent her first 20 years in a suspended 5’x5’x7’ steel cage, Cayenne never experienced the outdoors before 
coming to Save the Chimps. As a result, she has always been hesitant to venture far from the island habitat house where the chimps are given enrichment activities and food. “Sometimes she would make it onto the grass that is adjacent to the building, but she always would return to the outdoor patio,” explains Chimp Behavior & Welfare Manager Amanda Bania. “We meet our chimps where they are at –some suffer residual post traumatic stress from the years of biomedical procedures – imagine not having ever seen grass, nevermind feeling it on your toes!” added Bania. “Our care program allows the chimps the freedom to recover at their own pace, with Cayenne, it took her a little longer to enjoy being out on the 
island. We are so proud of how far she has come!” A big pant-hoot of thanks to YOU — our wonderful supporters year in and year out who have given these chimps a chance to recover and regain their freedom on their own terms (Dr. Noon was famous for saying all they need from us is a chance!). And big thanks to our patient and thoughtful care staff and to Cayenne’s close friends, Tarzan, Indie and Terry, who encouraged Cayenne in her gradual recovery journey!
Click here to send a note of thanks to Cayenne’s Care Staff & her encouraging group of friends! (We share your notes and post them!)
Pictured (top): Cayenne
Pictured (middle): Cayenne on the grass.
Pictured (bottom): Terry (on the walkway)patiently escorts his dear friend Cayenne out onto the Island.